Police investigation into bullying attack at school (From Ledbury Reporter)

Police investigation into bullying attack at school

8:48am Friday 9th May 2008

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THE parents of a 13-year-old boy have vowed never to sent him back to the John Masefield High School, after an alleged assault led to him being treated for cuts and bruises at St Katherine's Surgery.

Anthony Watkins says two older, larger boys kicked him in the head and punched him in the stomach while he was at school last week.

His parents have complained to the school and they have also reported the incident to the police.

They also claim that Anthony has been bullied at the school for almost two years.

They say that, despite complaints, staff have "swept the matter under the carpet".

Anthony's mum, Caroline Smith had to accompany Anthony to and from important SATS exams this week, because he was so afraid.

Miss Smith said the school had offered to keep Anthony in a break times in future.

But she said: "Why should he stay in and be kept out of the sunshine? To me that's not fair.

" Other pupils have been picking on him because he is so small."

She added: "I just want the school to put up its hands and say, yes, there's a problem."

But now his parents just want to move Anthony, perhaps to St Mary's School at Bartestee His father, John Watkins said: "The bullying has been going on for two years and the John Masefield High School has just swept it under the carpet.

"He'll never go back there now."

Anthony has always enjoyed school beforehand, but now he cries at the thought of ever going back to the John Masefield High School.

Police spokesman, Neil Tipton confirmed that an allegation of assault at the school had been made.

He said: "Officers are investigating the reported incident.

"The young lad concerned will be interviewed, using a special interview procedure for a child."

In a statement the school pointed out that a recent Ofsted report found "secure systems are in place to safeguard students and promote well being."

Head teacher, Andrew Evans said: "Violence is totally unacceptable at our school. On the very rare occasions when violence does occur we investigate thoroughly and take strong and appropriate disciplinary action.

"We would ask any parent with concerns to speak to us directly so that we can listen and make improvements where needed."

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